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Copenhagen happy with draw

By Kent Hedlundh

FC COPENHAGEN boss Hans Backe has praised his players' efforts after they grabbed a 1-1 draw against Rangers in the Champions League qualifying contest.

The Danish side will start the second leg as favourites to qualify through to the group stages after a Peter Nielsen strike cancelled out an early Peter Lovernkrands goal.

"It is a fantastic result. We scored and managed to get a draw and the only time we looked to be in trouble was the first and last ten minutes of the match, particularly from dead ball situations," explained Backe to BT.

"I felt we played a real good match and I am extremely proud of my side."

The Danish side's coach particularly praised his two central midfielders for their tireless work rate.

"Erik Mykland (pictured)&nbsp;and Peter Nielsen were the key players in our defensive play and I believe that it was decisive that Nielsen got fit."

Captain Nielsen was also full of praise for his team-mates.

"It was a real collective display, we just kept working. 1-1 is a good result but the tie is not settled," claimed the Danish international.

"It's a matter of keeping our feet rooted to the ground and learning from these matches."

He added: "We are not through yet. We shall work as hard at Parken to try and make sure we qualify for the Champions League, if we are as disciplined again at Parken they will not score."